How to Kill Dust Mites in Your Carpet Naturally

Jaimie Zinski

Dust mites are tiny bugs that live off dead skin cells and are found throughout the home, including on pillows, mattresses, furniture and carpets. The bugs themselves carry no diseases but, according to The Ohio State University, their fecal matter affect approximately 50 to 80 percent of all asthma suffers. Dust mites live in carpets and become airborne when the fibers are disturbed. Getting rid of dust mites in carpets can be accomplished without dangerous chemicals.

Consider removing carpets to control dust mites.

Step 1

Vacuum the carpet at least once a week. If possible, vacuum your carpets every day. Use a machine that is equipped with a HEPA, or high efficiency particulate air, filter. Vacuums equipped with these filters will remove more dust mites from your carpets than traditional models.

Step 2

Remove any throw or area rugs from the house and beat them with a broom two to three times per year. This will remove any excess dust, and mites, from the carpet.

Step 3

Reduce the humidity in the room to below 50 percent, according to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. This is accomplished by running your air conditioner in the summer or installing dehumidifiers in any carpeted rooms. Install a hygrometer, which is an instrument that measures humidity, in your home to help maintain this level.

Step 4

Clean the carpets thoroughly at least once a year. This is done through a professional or do-it-yourself steam cleaning. Steam will kill any existing dust mites without the use of chemicals. Steam cleaners can be rented or purchased at hardware and home improvement stores.